OFFBEAT TRAVEL

Experience the D.C. Music Scene at These Top 5 Spots

You'll get your fill of historical monuments and museums each day in Washington, D.C. At night, there are plenty of places in the capital to grab some tasty food while you catch a live band or dance
to a DJ's latest mix. You'll find concert halls, relaxed smaller venues, and edgy nightclubs throughout the city. Experience the D.C. music scene at these top spots.

The 9:30 Club

Open since 1980, The 9:30 Club has hosted bands that include R.E.M. and Nirvana. The 9:30 Club kept its name featuring its original address. Today, you can head to
815 V Street, NW to see musical acts including DJs, tribute bands, rap, and rock.

Most shows are all-ages, general admission, and standing room only. Pay for parking in advance when you buy tickets to reserve a space. The club is just two blocks from the Green Line Metro, also.

The Hamilton

If your visit to the nation's capital is short, read up on how to
spend a day in Washington, D.C. A guide can help you discover unique experiences in the city, like where to find the best pizza. After a day of sightseeing,
walk to The Hamilton, just a few blocks from the White House on 14th Street.

You can eat dinner, then see a concert at The Hamilton. In the live venue, enjoy a mix of rock, jazz, and bluegrass. Buy tickets for the bar area or seated general admission, or stop by for free late-night shows at the loft
bar.

Pearl Street Warehouse

If you prefer a more intimate setting, spend a few hours at Pearl Street Warehouse. The venue boasts that you'll never be more than 25 feet from the band. American music and classic diner food come together at this Pearl
Street spot in The Wharf district. Check out groups belting out country, bluegrass, blues, and rock. It's a 21-and-over crowd only at this music spot. You can
get to The Wharf by car, Metro, Water Taxi, or the free Southwest
Shuttle.

The Black Cat

If you're an alternative music fan and thrive in an edgy environment, visit The Black Cat on 14th Street. Catch national and regional bands in the Main Stage Room. Punk and garage bands can be seen in the Backstage Room.

Feed some quarters into the pinball machines and classic arcade games. Leave the plastic in your wallet though, it's cash only at the Black Cat.

Gypsy Sally's

Gypsy Sally's in Georgetown welcomes music lovers who prefer a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy bands with roots in jazz, funk, and arena rock. Buy tickets online or at the box office. Head around back to enter the
Vinyl Lounge
to soak up some local tunes in a comfy space with no cover charge. Beware, your GPS may lead you astray. Gypsy Sally's is on K Street, also called Water Street, beneath the Whitehurst Freeway.

Add these top music spots to your Washington, D.C. tour. Listen to live shows while you enjoy good food and drinks at these downtown and Georgetown venues.